Planning to go on a rock climbing trip with friends? Here’s what you must absolutely keep in mind before attempting rock climbing. Though exciting, it is also a dangerous activity if your presence of mind is shifted even for a split second. Also, rock climbing relies heavily on equipment along with body movements. Thus, one should be in sync while maneuvering the equipment and moving their hands and feet.
Before actually taking to the rocks outdoors, rock climbing must be thoroughly practiced indoors, in rock climbing arenas. Moreover, if you want to take it up seriously in the long run, then it does call for some investments. Here are all the tips you need to know.
Invest in equipments: Proper rock climbing requires good gear which you need to invest in. starting from a harness that tightly holds all the loose ends to a helmet which can be counted on for safety. Opt for helmets which have spaces on top to fit a light or a camera. Ropes should be very sturdy and ones that are counted on to take up your body weight and additional pressure to an extent. Moreover, the shoes should be very swift and smooth. They should be able to have a good grip on the rocks, so that you can push through and move upwards.
Inspection is a must: Just having good equipment is not enough. They should be timely inspected for any damage. Ideally before and after every rock climbing session you must thoroughly inspect your equipment. If needed, take them to the experts for an official servicing at least once a year.
Environment check: Before you actually venture out for rock climbing, always check the weather. If it is a sunny day, go ahead. But if the weather is concerning with rainfall, cold winds or storm alert, absolutely avoid this activity. Bad weather, especially rain and snow can make the rocks slippery.
Communication: Always go in a group while going rock climbing. Also, communicate properly if you face any difficulties while climbing. The clearer you are the faster and proper help you will receive.
Three-Point-of-Contact Rule: When you are climbing, always maintain the Three- Point-of-Contact Rule. According to this, three parts of your body should always be in contact with the rock at any given point in time. This can be both your hands and one foot or both your feet and one hand.
Warm up: Never start climbing the rocks directly. Always take a few minutes before the climbing session begins to do some stretches and basic warm up exercises to loosen your muscles and reduce the stiffness from the body. This helps the body to relax and adjust well with irregular movements of rock climbing.
For more updates, join/follow our WhatsApp, Telegram and YouTube channels.